Kristen and Spiro’s wedding day was proof that you do not need a massive budget or a ballroom dripping in florals to have a day that feels like a whole movie.
They built something personal, DIY, a little unconventional in the best way, and packed with love. Think fall brunch vibes, no bridal party, heartfelt vows, and a dance floor that surprised everyone.
Why They Chose Once Upon a Party Banquet
Kristen and Spiro chose Once Upon a Party Banquet because it was affordable, partially decorated already, and had a small outdoor space that gave them a little fresh air break between all the hugging and happy crying.
It checked the boxes that mattered most. Easy, transparent, and flexible enough to make it feel like them without needing to overcomplicate the day.
The Dress That Started And Ended With Confidence
Kristen found her dress at David’s Bridal, ordered it online, and did not try on a single other dress. She saw it, grabbed it, and that was that.
It was also a steal at $150, and she customized the back with a corset detail, which gave it that extra “this is mine” touch without turning it into a whole production.
A Ceremony At Their Home Church
Kristen and Spiro were married at Oriole Christian Assembly, their home church, with a ceremony that centered on the parts they cared about most. No bridal party, no extra fluff, just them promising their future to each other.
Spiro said his most anticipated moment was seeing Kristen come to the altar. Kristen said it was sharing their personal vows. That combination tells you everything about their day. Heart-forward and real.
Brunch Wedding Energy, But Make It A Party
They wanted the day to feel like them, not like a checklist. Brunch food, fall-inspired colors from a hike date they loved, DIY details like candles and paper goods, and sunflowers worked in because they are Kristen’s favorite.
Kristen’s friends decorated the space and put their own spin on the handmade pieces, which made it feel even more personal. It looked thoughtful without looking forced, and it felt lived-in in the best way.
The Dessert Table Deserved Its Own Round Of Applause
Instead of going minimal, they went delicious. A custom cake and Oreo cookies made by Kristen’s cousin April at Hello Cupcake Chicago, a donut tower, and Greek cookies from Spiro’s aunt Kathy.
If you ever need permission to treat dessert like a main event, this is it. Everyone wins.
The DJ Pulled Off An Impossible Playlist
Kristen’s biggest surprise was the DJ. Jamison from Anomaly DJ absolutely crushed it, and most people danced, which they did not expect for a brunch wedding.
They asked for Christian or chill music during dinner, and he found Christian dinner music and instrumentals of Kristen’s favorite songs. Then he somehow blended American, Greek, and Spanish music throughout the day to merge their cultures in a way that felt natural instead of chaotic.
He even had some 70s jams in there that Kristen’s dad loved. That detail hit hard.
Favorite Moments They’ll Never Forget
Spiro’s favorite part of the day was dancing and getting to enjoy time with both families together. He also said Joe’s speech and having all his friends show up was a huge surprise.
Kristen’s favorite moment was the last dance with Spiro to Golden Hour. She said it felt like a rom com, like it was just the two of them and nobody else was in the room.
Also, Uncle John dancing was not on the bingo card, but it happened, and we love that for everyone.
A Quick Tip For Couples Planning A DIY Wedding
Do it your way, and let your people help you. Kristen and Spiro’s day worked so well because they leaned into what mattered and let the rest be simple. The love in the room did the heavy lifting.
And if something gets forgotten, it is not the end of the world. The right people will find a way to bring it back to you.
Kristen and Spiro’s Wedding Day Vendors:
Photography: Westley Leon Studios // Venue: Once Upon a Party Banquet // Ceremony: Oriole Christian Assembly // DJ: Anomaly DJ // Cake and Oreo Cookies: Hello Cupcake Chicago // Staffing: NYE Staffing
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